The Wachiya boutique in Old Montréal is a cultural and commercial space dedicated to showcasing Cree craftsmanship.
This 1,700-sq.-ft. hybrid space that blends both boutique and gallery was designed in collaboration with the Cree Native Arts & Crafts Association (CNACA), and Montréal-based interior design firm Clairoux. The space goes beyond traditional retail and offers an experience where contemporary design and Indigenous traditions come together.
In April 2024, CNACA entrusted Clairoux with the design of a landmark space that would reflect Cree artistic and cultural heritage with a goal to invite visitors to explore and immerse themselves in Cree traditions. At the core of the project was a mission: to build a meaningful space within three months with a limited budget of $80,000. Clairoux took on the challenge, and developed a narrative-driven architectural concept that resonates with Cree youth, while also captivating an international audience.
The interior design concept is based on the idea that “we are connected to everything around us—our environment, others, and every action we take has an impact on another.” This quote became the backbone of the space, inspiring the creation of a subtle visual thread that runs through the store.
This central design element links visitors to Cree history and traditions. From the exterior, the symbolic thread draws visitors into an immersive journey, and leads them through different artistic and cultural expressions, ultimately connecting them to the essence of Cree identity: the forest.
This sensory experience is further enhanced by a projection at the back of the boutique, which evokes the Cree landscape in an abstract and mesmerizing way.
Wachiya’s layout adopts a minimalist and contemporary approach, allowing Cree art to take center stage. Green is Wachiya’s signature colour, which visually reinforces the central design thread.
Tree trunks sourced from Cree forests have also been integrated into the space, which serve as a natural connection to the origins of the displayed artworks. Wooden display shelves retained their raw texture and natural scent to deepen the sensory immersion, while mirrors, which have been strategically spaced, encourage self-reflection so that visitors can become part of Cree culture.
The layout blends sleek aesthetics with functionality, ensuring smooth circulation and optimal display of handcrafted artworks. The use of natural, locally sourced materials, combined with close collaboration with the Cree community, underscores a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
“At Clairoux, we believe that design is not just about shaping spaces; it is about amplifying their purpose and meaning,” said Frédric Clairoux, principal designer and founder of Clairoux. “This project was particularly close to our hearts because it carries a profound message—cultural sharing and the transmission of heritage. Working alongside CNACA and their artisans has been an enriching experience that goes beyond the traditional scope of interior design.”
This project aims to be a demonstration of design’s ability to tell a story, create connections between a culture and its audience, and build a bridge between tradition and modernity. It was brought to life in close collaboration with Cree artisans and local partners, to bring authenticity and purpose to each detail.
